Australia must play both Symonds, Watson: Waugh

Melbourne, Nov 15 (UNI) Former captain Steve Waugh has called on Australia to play both all-rounders Andrew Symonds and Shane Watson in Brisbane next week against New Zealand.

The return of Symonds to the Test fold has led to suggestions that Watson, despite a good performance in India, would be forced to make way for him.

But Waugh believes there is room for both. ''It's a difficult choice,'' he was quoted as saying by 'The Australian'. ''But Watson did very well (in India) and he might come in as a third quick. I think Australia would like to have both those players in the team if they can.'' Symonds is averaging just over 13 this year at state level and some argue that his form is not good enough to be back in the side.

However, Waugh said Symonds has to be rushed back into the team.

Waugh said Australians should not expect miracles from Symonds, while Ricky Ponting backed him saying his current form was irrelevant as the batsman is a big-game hunter.

''I think they need him back in the side, his spirit back in the side, the way he carries himself and his enthusiasm,'' the former captain said. ''Whether he is, form wise, ready to get back into it and mentally, the jury is still out on that, because he hasn't done well for Queensland yet.

''There's got to be still some question marks, it's not easy at international level just to turn the tap on and say 'OK, I am going to get back into my best form now', so I think it might take a little bit of time.

''We don't want to expect miracles straight away in Brisbane, I think it will take him a couple of games to get back into it,'' he added.